The Chiefs recovered from a disappointing start to exert their forward superiority and maintain a 100% winning start to the season, beating Teignmouth 28-13.

A high penalty count in the first quarter yielded the initiative to Teignmouth and led to a yellow card for Tom Hodge midway through the half.

Teignmouth seized the opportunity to build up a 13-point lead thanks to two penalties kicked by the inside centre, who also scored and converted a try when he followed up his own grubber kick to touch down under the posts.

Meanwhile, the Chiefs had an opportunity to open their account when Dan Rugg and Shaun Malton combined in a move stopped just short of the line but a knock on gave Teignmouth a chance to clear the danger.

The Chiefs improved their discipline and were rewarded when good work by the backs set up George Locke on a run into the 22. When he was stopped, the forwards were on hand to move the ball through a series of rucks for Rob Griffin to drive over from close range. Jake Allen added the conversion.

Teignmouth lost a prop to the sin bin as the Chiefs forwards began to take control in the closing minutes of the half.

The Chiefs took the lead eight minutes into the second half when Tom Hodge cut through a gap in the centre following a ruck near the line. The conversion nudged them ahead.

New number eight Archie Cruze almost increased the score but was held up over the line.

Midway through the half, the Chiefs eventually put themselves two scores ahead when Ryan Cozens crashed over from a ruck near the line after a quick tap penalty had set up Rory O’Brien on a run into the 22. The try was converted.

Archie Cruze got his name on the scoresheet with another try from close range. Jake Allen kicked a fourth conversion to complete the scoring.

On Saturday, second placed Sidmouth Chiefs travel to play top-of-the-table Topsham. At the Blackmore Field, the Quins take on Okehampton 2nds, kicking off at 3pm.